Lubbock ISD Superintendent Dr. Kathy Rollo:

I was incredibly saddened and disappointed to learn of anti-semitic material shared by a student at Hutchinson Middle School. Lubbock ISD does not condone or permit racism, intolerance, or discrimination in any form, and the campus administration swiftly addressed the situation with the involved students and their families.

Campus and district leaders have met with representatives from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to discuss the actions taken and how to move forward together. I have also spoken with several parents and local Jewish leaders about this incident. Educational resources provided by the ADL will be integrated into International Baccalaureate lessons at Hutchinson Middle School and additional curriculum materials throughout the district. I ask our families to support our efforts by discussing the issues of racism and discrimination with their children at home.

While I do not believe the actions of a single student reflect the culture of an entire campus, we have an obligation to confront any language or behavior that impacts our students’ ability to feel safe, connected, and cared for at school. Campus administrators are continuing to respond to this specific situation with the appropriate and necessary actions to correct it.

While there is no question these actions were thoughtless and hurtful, we all have opportunities to learn and grow from our mistakes. We are resolute in our efforts to continue helping all students develop the skill sets and mindsets to create a brighter future for all and serve our mission of nurturing, developing, and inspiring every child, every day in Lubbock ISD.

Lubbock ISD Board of Trustees President Zach Brady:

There is no place in Lubbock ISD for threats of violence against any person or any group of people. That sort of behavior is simply unacceptable and will be treated as such. Our Board of Trustees has been briefed on the situation at Hutchinson MS, and we believe appropriate disciplinary and education measures have been taken in this incident, and are in fact ongoing. Our Board of Trustees appreciates the efforts of Principal Stewart, Dr. Rollo, and our administrative team to respond to this incident and to continue appropriate educational efforts in the future.

Lubbock ISD Press Hub

Anti-Semitism Stance